The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has commenced 2025 with a series of high-profile arrests and significant drug seizures across multiple states, including Lagos, Kwara, Kano, and Rivers.
These actions, aimed at disrupting drug trafficking and combating substance abuse, were disclosed in a statement by the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, on Sunday.
Key Operations and Arrests
Lagos State: The Arrest of a Drug Kingpin
On New Year’s Day, NDLEA operatives apprehended 61-year-old Alhaja Aishat Feyisara Ajoke Elediye, also known as “Iya Ruka,” at her mansion in Okota, Lagos. Elediye, a prominent socialite and alleged leader of a drug cartel operating in the Mushin area, had been on the agency’s wanted list for years.
Her arrest was linked to the interception of a white Isuzu truck loaded with 44 jumbo sacks containing 1,540 kilograms of imported cannabis. The vehicle, driven by her staff member, Abideen Adio, was seized following intelligence reports.
While Alhaja Ajoke maintained the appearance of a legitimate businesswoman, importing fabrics and shoes, investigations revealed her deep involvement in the drug trade. She also held a prominent social position as the “Iyalaje” of Blessing Sisters, a Lagos women’s club.
US-Trained Filmmaker Arrested
In another significant operation, NDLEA arrested US-trained filmmaker and motivational speaker Emeka Emmanuel Mbadiwe on December27, 2024. The arrest occurred at a hotel in Lekki after his associate, Uzoekwe Ugochukwu James, was caught earlier with 17.3 kilograms of “Loud,” a potent strain of cannabis, hidden in wooden boxes shipped from the United States.
James, who was intercepted at a warehouse in Ajao Estate, Ikeja, had been sent by Mbadiwe to collect the illicit shipment.
Drug-Laced Cupcakes in Ilorin
In Kwara State, NDLEA operatives arrested 24-year-old Khadijat Abdulraheem and 20-year-old Ayomide Morakinyo on December 29, 2024. The pair, a recent graduate and a university student, were accused of producing and selling drug-laced cupcakes to students in the community. A search of their apartment yielded 42 drugged cakes.
Passport Smuggling Operation Foiled
In Lagos, NDLEA operatives rearrested ex-convict Sodade Sunday Eniola for his involvement in a passport smuggling racket. Eniola, who had previously served time for drug trafficking, was found to be smuggling 52 passports concealed in shoe soles and food items.
The passports, destined for countries such as Canada and Russia, were intercepted in December 2024. Investigations led to the arrest of four individuals linked to the smuggling operation, and the suspects were handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for further prosecution.
Codeine Syrup Seized in Rivers
On December 31, 2024, a joint operation between NDLEA and the Nigeria Customs Service at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex in Rivers State led to the seizure of 316,800 bottles of codeine-based syrup. The containers were intercepted based on credible intelligence.
Massive Drug Haul in Kano
In Kano, NDLEA operatives raided the Mafarki area in Dala Local Government on the last day of 2024. The operation resulted in the recovery of 149,090 pills of tramadol and Exol-5 from a local dealer, 45-year-old Ismail Muhammad.
The NDLEA has reaffirmed its commitment to curbing the proliferation of illicit drugs and dismantling criminal networks involved in trafficking. The agency’s recent actions demonstrate its readiness to tackle drug-related crimes and safeguard the wellbeing of Nigerians.
These operations underscore the agency’s focus on not only intercepting drug shipments but also targeting key players and syndicates at the heart of the trade.
